NMB to expand banking services to 2,000 villages

TANGA: NMB Bank has said it plans to reach over 2,000 additional villages this year as part of its efforts to expand rural banking services to underserved communities.

The bank Head of Sales and Branch Network, Mr Donatus Richard said during the NMB Kijiji Day event held in Handeni District, Tanga Region, over the weekend, that the event was part of the bank’s broader drive to bring services closer to the people while promoting social welfare.

“Since 2024, the bank has expanded services to 3,000 previously underserved villages,” he said.

He added that NMB opened over two million accounts between 2024 and January this year. The bank was using the platform to offer financial education, open accounts and encourage community wellbeing through sports, entertainment and public engagement. Mr Richard said banking services had for many years remained concentrated in urban centres, prompting NMB in 2024 to step up its rural expansion drive.

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Today, according to NMB, it operates 248 branches nationwide, supported by over 73,000 Wakala agents, more than 700 ATMs and serves over 10 million customers.

The Handeni District Commissioner Salum Nyamwese hailed NMB Bank for extending financial services to rural areas, saying the move is helping to unlock economic opportunities in agriculture, livestock and small-scale businesses.

Mr Nyamwese said financial institutions have a key role in supporting the government’s agenda of strengthening village economies and improving livelihoods.

He added that the event was not merely a marketing platform, but also an opportunity for wananchi to access important services and knowledge. The event, organised by NMB Bank brought together residents for 5km jogging exercise, health screening, blood donation and financial education.